In a previous post, I discussed the development of an efficiency factor for regular sized sleeping pads that takes into account warmth and weight. The warmth is given by the R-value, a standard measure used in the construction industry for insulation. I standardized the weight with the surface area, but I only included a chart […]

Sleeping pad manufacturers have been quoting R-values for their pads lately. This is a major step up from quoting nothing for a warmth spec. However, until there is a similar system for rating sleeping bags, and then a system for comparing sleep systems, there will still be a lot of trial and error in choosing […]

It is no surprise that I enjoy the cold, and so it is no surprise that I’ve spent a lot of time in some cold places. I’ve learned a lot of things about how to sleep comfortably in the cold. Here is what I do. I take a good look at the historical temperature and […]

I purchased an Exped Downmat 9 for use on longer trips in severe conditions. I wanted something that would ensure high quality sleep over trips of duration more than a week. I only plan on using this when the temperatures at night are expected to be well below 0F and the sleep surfaces may include […]